Research Strategies in the Social Sciences : A Guide to New Approaches

In this single, accessible volume, a team of international experts sets out a range of analytic tools available to social scientists from the cutting edge of social science methodolgy. In contrast to much of the existing literature, which is often of daunting complexity, this volume presents social scientists with some experience with a guide through the maze of advanced techniques applicable across the range of the social sciences. The first chapters outline ways in which the revolution in computing power is transforming the working environment for social scientists, extending their analytic reach, and opening up new research horizons. The empirical chapters each present a particular approach to data analysis, discussing the underlying logic and demonstrating its application by working through a substantive example - with mathematical reasoning kept to a minimum. The theoretical chapters provide an introduction to recently developing approaches to social science research. Each chapter includes ample references to other works in the field, and to appropriate software programs, for those who are keen to pursue a particular approach in greater detail.